Rock Solid: Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast

What do a rattlesnake bite, building a successful Montessori school, and helping entrepreneurs launch thriving businesses have in common?

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Shannon Black, Chair of SCORE Austin, entrepreneur, former educator, and business mentor, to discuss what it really takes to start, grow, hire, and eventually sell a successful business.

Shannon shares her incredible story—from starting a Montessori school because she couldn't find the right one for her son, to growing it into two successful locations before selling the business. She also opens up about a recent rattlesnake bite that nearly kept her from recording this episode.

Whether you're launching your first business or struggling to find great employees, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can use immediately.

In this episode you'll learn:
• Why Shannon started a business with no formal business background
• How SCORE provides free mentoring for entrepreneurs
• The biggest mistakes new business owners make
• Hiring strategies that actually work in today's job market
• The best day and time to post job openings
• How SEO impacts your job listings
• Simple interview questions that reveal the best candidates
• Building a company culture that attracts and retains great employees
• When it's time to make your first hire
• Why being "firm and kind" creates better leaders

If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or planning to start a company, this episode is full of actionable insights that can save you time, money, and frustration.

Learn more about SCORE and find a free mentor at SCORE.org.

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, please Like, Subscribe, and Share it with another entrepreneur.

#RockSolidPodcast #BryanEisenberg #SCORE #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Hiring #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #RoundRock #AustinBusiness #CompanyCulture #SmallBusinessTips #HiringEmployees #StartupAdvice

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Is TikTok really just a dancing app for teenagers? Not anymore.

On this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Round Rock native Ennis Wright, an account executive at TikTok, to uncover how businesses of every size can use TikTok to tell better stories, reach new audiences, and grow.

After speaking at the Round Rock Chamber’s Founders Forum, Ennis shares the biggest misconceptions business owners have about TikTok — including the belief that “my customers aren’t there.”

Bryan and Ennis discuss:

• Why TikTok is becoming a powerful discovery platform
• How storytelling beats traditional selling
• Why businesses don’t need to go viral to succeed
• How TikTok creates a “halo effect” across Google, websites, and other platforms
• The difference between organic content, paid ads, creators, and TikTok Shop
• How AI is making authentic storytelling even more valuable
• Why local businesses — from banks to roofers to studios — should rethink their content strategy

Ennis also shares his journey growing up in Round Rock, attending Stony Point High School, and watching the city transform into the thriving community it is today.

Whether you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, marketer, or someone who still thinks TikTok “isn’t for you,” this conversation may change how you think about the future of social media and customer connection.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Hiring is changing faster than ever—and many businesses aren't prepared.

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Kelly Moreno, Chief Solutions Officer at Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area, to discuss the future of work, workforce development, AI, skilled trades, internships, apprenticeships, and the biggest hiring challenges facing employers today.

Kelly shares how businesses can access free workforce resources, upskill employees, improve retention, connect with interns, and rethink outdated hiring practices. She also explains why parents, educators, and students should take a fresh look at career pathways beyond the traditional four-year college degree.

Whether you're a business owner, HR leader, educator, parent, or job seeker, this conversation is packed with practical advice for navigating today's rapidly changing workforce.

• Why employers struggle to find qualified talent
• The growing demand for skilled trades and manufacturing careers
• How AI is changing the workforce
• Apprenticeships vs. traditional college pathways
• Teacher externships and internship programs
• Workforce retention strategies for employers
• Free workforce resources available to Texas businesses
• Why job descriptions need a major update
• Preparing students for careers that don't exist yet

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and Share to help more business leaders discover conversations that strengthen the Round Rock business community.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode:

What does it take to go from a lifelong Round Rock resident to serving your community at the Texas Capitol?

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Caroline Harris Davila to discuss growing up in Round Rock, the values that shaped her leadership, and why community involvement matters more than ever. Caroline shares the story of how she unexpectedly entered public service at just 27 years old, the lessons she learned overcoming her fear of public speaking, and why helping neighbors remains at the heart of everything she does.

Topics include:

• Growing up in Round Rock
• Community leadership and service
• Faith, family, and civic engagement
• Supporting nonprofits and local organizations
• Young people in public service
• Housing affordability and workforce opportunities
• Building confidence and overcoming fear
• Why relationships matter in leadership

Whether you're interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, community building, or personal growth, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What happens when life changes in an instant?

In this heartfelt episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Geneva, founder of Victorious Walk Counseling, TEDx speaker, professional counselor, and EMDR practitioner, to discuss grief, resilience, healing, and the courage to keep moving forward after unimaginable loss.

After losing her husband unexpectedly and becoming a widowed mother of three boys, Geneva discovered that grief and growth are not opposites—they can exist together. She shares powerful insights on:

✅ Holding grief and joy at the same time

✅ Raising resilient children after loss

✅ Why vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness

✅ The connection between purpose and healing

✅ How EMDR therapy helps process trauma

✅ Anxiety, self-worth, and mental health among college students

✅ Why we speak more kindly to others than we do to ourselves

✅ Supporting aging parents through loss of independence

✅ Finding meaning after tragedy

This conversation is filled with wisdom for anyone navigating grief, supporting a loved one through loss, struggling with anxiety, or looking for a healthier path toward resilience and emotional well-being.

Connect with Geneva

🌐 Victorious Walk Counseling: https://victoriouswalk.com

📱 Instagram: @myvictoriouswalk

If this episode resonates with you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need to hear this message.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Michelle Ly wears more hats than most people can imagine.

As a Round Rock City Council member, business owner, nonprofit leader, wife, and mother, Michelle has built a life centered around service, leadership, and making a difference in her community. In this episode of Rock Solid, she shares her journey from the daughter of Vietnamese refugees to becoming a respected entrepreneur and one of Round Rock’s most recognizable community leaders.

Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Michelle to discuss:

• Growing up in Round Rock and why she returned after college

• Building Hall Roofing & Construction alongside her husband

• Owning The Rock Sports Bar, The Flats, and Alcove Cantina

• Managing multiple businesses while serving on City Council

• The power of servant leadership

• Supporting nonprofits and giving back to the community

• Balancing motherhood, business ownership, and public service

• Her vision for the future of Round Rock

• Why she believes leadership starts with showing up and doing the work

Michelle also shares how being an introvert has helped her become a better leader, why she believes in leading by example, and how she stays focused on serving others despite the demands on her time.

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, community leadership, local business, or the future of Round Rock, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more conversations with the entrepreneurs, leaders, and organizations shaping Round Rock and Central Texas.

#RoundRock #MichelleLy #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #CityCouncil #SmallBusiness #CommunityLeadership #RockSolidPodcast #BryanEisenberg #RoundRockTexas

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What happens when a Google finance professional decides corporate life isn’t enough anymore?

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Van Baker, owner of Pink Zebra Moving in Round Rock, Texas. Van shares his journey from working in data center finance at Google to launching one of the fastest-growing moving companies in Central Texas.

They dive into:

• Why Van chose entrepreneurship after corporate life
• The pros and cons of franchising
• What makes Pink Zebra Moving different
• How customer experience drives word-of-mouth growth
• Moving tips that can save you stress and money
• Why “fun” and moving can actually go together

If you’ve ever thought about starting a business, buying a franchise, or improving customer experience in your company, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

📍 Learn more about Pink Zebra Moving Round Rock
📍 Serving Round Rock, Pflugerville, Austin, and surrounding areas

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Round Rock native Hunter Leatherman joins Bryan Eisenberg on Rock Solid to share his journey from working as a bat boy for the Round Rock Express to becoming Vice President at Frontier Bank.

In this episode, Hunter reflects on growing up in Round Rock during its explosive growth, learning the value of community from his banker parents, and why local relationships still matter in today’s business world. He also shares lessons from professional baseball clubhouses, the importance of servant leadership, and why community banking plays such a critical role in helping local businesses thrive.

Bryan and Hunter discuss:

• The transformation of Round Rock over the last 20+ years
• Why local banks invest differently than national banks
• Lessons learned from working around professional athletes
• Building relationships before you need help
• Leadership, teamwork, and serving the community
• The impact of businesses like Kalahari and the Round Rock Express
• Raising the next generation in Round Rock

If you care about entrepreneurship, leadership, local business, and the future of Round Rock, this episode is packed with valuable insights and hometown perspective.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with career strategist Candyce Hunt to uncover a powerful truth: many professionals are unknowingly undervaluing themselves—and it’s costing them more than just money.

Candyce shares her shocking “$85K vs $175K” salary story that sparked her mission to help others “get off the clearance rack” and recognize their true worth. From navigating burnout to understanding your value in the age of AI, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.

You’ll learn:

• How to identify if you’re being undervalued in your career
• The mindset shift needed to demand your true worth
• Why burnout is more dangerous than you think
• How AI is changing the workforce—and how to stay relevant
• The power of small, consistent actions for long-term success

If you’ve ever questioned your salary, felt stuck in your career, or struggled with burnout—this episode is for you.

📌 Connect with Candyce Hunt:
Search “Five Minute Career Hack” on YouTube or visit her website for tools to elevate your confidence, career, and compensation.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Trina Martin, founder of Parents for Arts Education, to discuss the growing crisis around arts education—and why it matters more than ever.

Trina shares her powerful journey from music marketing to becoming a passionate advocate for fine arts in schools. From her experience speaking at TEDx Round Rock Women to working with policymakers, she reveals why arts programs are often the first to be cut—and what that means for future generations.

This conversation dives deep into:

• Why arts education is often misunderstood as a “luxury”
• The real-world skills students gain from music, theater, and dance
• How removing arts impacts student development and workforce readiness
• What parents, businesses, and communities can do to make a difference
• The surprising research behind arts, performance, and human skills

If you care about education, creativity, or the future workforce, this is a must-watch conversation.

👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with local leaders and change-makers.

🎧 About Rock Solid:
Rock Solid is the Round Rock Business Leaders podcast, where we explore the journeys of entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and organizations shaping our community.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenburg sits down with Destin George Bell for a candid conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and what it really takes to build a startup from the ground up.

Destin shares his incredible journey from moving to Austin with no money and living out of his car, to cold-emailing his way into startup opportunities, building Card.io, and landing a deal on Shark Tank during Mark Cuban’s final season. He also opens up about the messy side of startup life, including co-founder struggles, fundraising challenges, burnout, and the personal growth that came from nearly giving up.

They also dive into:

- What it was really like pitching on Shark Tank with his mom by his side

- The hidden challenges founders face behind the polished success stories

- Lessons from raising venture capital

- Why team chemistry matters more than most founders realize

- How AI is changing the startup game

-Why Round Rock is becoming a compelling place to build something big

If you are a founder, entrepreneur, investor, or someone dreaming about building a business, this episode is packed with real insight, inspiration, and practical startup wisdom.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with entrepreneur and former CEO Mathias Ihlenfeld to explore his incredible journey—from arriving in the U.S. with almost nothing to building a $100M global brand.

Mathias shares how he helped scale Woom Bikes, disrupting a 200-year-old industry by focusing on one simple idea: designing bikes specifically for kids. But the real story goes deeper—into risk, resilience, and the power of true customer-centricity.

You’ll learn:

• How Mathias grew from selling just 13 bikes to explosive 1600% growth
• Why most companies THINK they’re customer-focused (but aren’t)
• The difference between customer experience and employee experience
• How to build a strong company culture that actually scales
• The hard truths about entrepreneurship, burnout, and leadership

Mathias also shares his transition from CEO to coach, where he now helps entrepreneurs and leaders become the best version of themselves—both in business and life.

If you're a founder, entrepreneur, or business leader looking to scale with purpose, this episode is packed with real, actionable insights.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Mary Parker of Infinite Potential Counseling to explore a radically different approach to mental health.

Instead of managing symptoms for years, Mary focuses on identifying and addressing the root causes—from diet and toxins to genetics and lifestyle.

After a personal journey that led her to question traditional medical approaches, Mary now helps families reverse symptoms like ADHD, anxiety, and depression—often without medication.

🔍 In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why mental health may NOT be a standalone condition
• The powerful connection between food, gut health, and the brain
• How toxins and everyday ingredients impact behavior
• Why many kids are being misdiagnosed
• Practical steps parents can take right now
• How small dietary changes can create massive results

This conversation challenges conventional thinking and offers a new perspective on healing, especially for children.

If you're a parent, entrepreneur, or anyone interested in optimizing your mental and physical health—this episode is a must-watch.

👉 Connect with Mary Parker & Infinite Potential:
Search “Infinite Potential” or “Reinventing Mental Health” on your favorite platforms.

📍 Recorded at Round Rock Studio

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What happens when two data experts decide to bring enterprise-level analytics to small businesses?

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Arantza Garcia Delfin and Femke Munting, co-founders of Amralytics, to talk about how small businesses can stop guessing and start using data to grow with confidence.

Arantza and Femke share how their work with local businesses uncovered a common challenge: owners are overwhelmed by platforms, reports, and dashboards, but still do not know which numbers actually matter. They explain how Amralytics helps simplify that chaos by translating data into clear actions that improve profit, staffing, inventory, marketing, and peace of mind.

They also break down a real example of helping a coffee shop increase owner profit by $45,000 in just four months through smarter forecasting, staffing, inventory planning, and social media analysis.

In this conversation, you will hear:

• Why small businesses have more useful data than they realize
• How analytics can reduce waste and improve decision-making
• Why confidence and clarity matter as much as profit
• Lessons from visiting 30 small businesses in 30 days
• How Amralytics is making advanced analytics accessible for local business owners

If you are a business owner trying to make smarter decisions without drowning in dashboards, this episode is for you.

#RockSolidPodcast #BryanEisenberg #Amralytics #SmallBusiness #BusinessAnalytics #AIforBusiness #Entrepreneurship #RoundRockTX #DataAnalytics #BusinessGrowth

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What if the best classroom didn’t have walls?

In this episode of Rock Solid: The Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Joecelyn Esparza, founder of Wild Explorers Nature Co-op, to talk about reconnecting kids and families with the outdoors.

After seeing the powerful impact nature had on her own children during 2020, Joecelyn began building outdoor micro-communities where families gather weekly to explore Central Texas trails, learn from nature, and develop a deeper connection to the environment.

Through Wild Explorers, kids trade screens and desks for hiking trails, creek beds, and hands-on discovery — learning science, stewardship, and curiosity directly from the natural world.

Bryan and Joecelyn discuss:

• How Wild Explorers Nature Co-op creates outdoor learning communities• The benefits of nature-based education for kids• Why getting children outside changes behavior and learning• Hidden nature spots around Round Rock and Central Texas• The importance of preserving green spaces• Joecelyn’s vision for a Round Rock Nature Center

If you're a parent, educator, outdoor enthusiast, or community leader interested in the future of nature education and local conservation, this episode will inspire you to look at learning — and your city — differently.

Learn more about Wild Explorers Nature Co-op and Joecelyn’s mission to reconnect families with nature across Central Texas.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What does it really mean to be a community banker?

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Aaron Dominguez of Frost Bank — a leader whose impact stretches far beyond banking.

Aaron serves on multiple boards including the Round Rock Chamber, the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber, the Round Rock Baseball League, Planning & Zoning Commission, and Chasco Family YMCA. But how does he balance it all — career, community leadership, faith, and raising four boys?

Aaron shares:

• The real meaning of community banking

• Why showing up consistently matters more than transactions

• How Frost Bank differentiates itself through culture and storytelling

• Lessons from mentoring young entrepreneurs (including his son’s startup!)

• Why Round Rock continues to be one of the fastest-growing and most opportunity-rich cities in the country

• Advice for Chamber members who want real ROI from networking

From coaching the Round Rock Mets to helping businesses navigate economic shifts, Aaron proves that leadership is about presence, service, and long-term relationships.

If you're a business owner, parent, entrepreneur, or community builder, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration.

📍 Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn or visit him at Frost Bank in La Frontera.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What does it take to lead one of Texas’ fastest-growing cities?

In this episode of Rock Solid: The Round Rock Business Leaders Podcast, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Mayor Craig Morgan to discuss the transformation of Round Rock, Texas — from economic development strategy to downtown revitalization, data centers, tourism, and building a financially sound city.

Mayor Morgan shares:

• The story behind the new Griffith Building and Founder’s Wall

• Why commercial development is critical to keeping residential taxes lower

• The truth about data centers and warehouse alternatives

• How downtown Round Rock is evolving

• Lessons in leadership through crises like COVID, floods, and storms

• Why empathy and accessibility matter in public service

• His vision for Round Rock 2030 and beyond

From Round Rock Donuts’ global recognition to Old Settlers Park tournaments driving tourism revenue, this conversation explores how thoughtful planning, partnerships, and community events keep Round Rock thriving while maintaining its unique culture.

If you’re a business owner, civic leader, or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights on growth, infrastructure, leadership, and building a unified community.

👇 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share to support local leadership stories.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What happens when life’s highest highs and lowest lows collide in the same year?

In this powerful episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Tracey Janowitz, serial entrepreneur, community builder, and co-founder of Patriot MMA & Fitness and Hippo Social Club in Round Rock, Texas.

Tracey shares her remarkable journey:

• Meeting her husband and going “all in” on life and business

• Opening their first gym in Illinois with zero fitness background

• Becoming a wife and mother — while losing her own mother to cancer

• Moving cross-country during COVID

• Rebuilding business and community from scratch in Williamson County

From shipping container gyms to 36 acres of green space, cold plunges, saunas, trail runs, and women’s circles — Tracey explains how intentional community-building became the foundation of their success.

This episode dives deep into:

✔️ Thriving through adversity

✔️ Building a business with your spouse

✔️ Why community is the ultimate competitive advantage

✔️ The difference between being alone and being lonely

✔️ Creating environments that make wellness accessibleIf you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or someone craving deeper connection in a hyper-connected world — this conversation is for you.

📍 Learn more about Patriot MMA & Fitness and Hippo Social Club in Round Rock

📍 Connect with Tracey and discover upcoming events

- Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

- Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

- Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Nico Martinez, co-founder of Prociglieri and longtime startup technologist, to talk about his global entrepreneurial journey—from building engineering teams at Ticketmaster and NBCUniversal to now advising startups as a fractional CTO.

Nico shares hard-won lessons about:

• Why startups often fail at execution (and how to avoid it)

• The myth of the all-in CTO hire

• How remote-first culture and intentional leadership fuel his growing consultancy

• What Round Rock offers that LA and Argentina couldn't

• Why founders are often their own biggest obstacle

Plus, hear his thoughts on the AI hype cycle, hiring global teams, and choosing between Texas BBQ or Argentinian Asado.

Learn how the Round Rock community and its entrepreneurial spirit helped Nico build a thriving, people-centered tech company.

📍 Recorded at Round Rock Studio

🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more real conversations with inspiring business leaders from Central Texas.

- Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

- Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

- Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Discover how the Round Rock Chamber achieved a historic milestone of 1,001 members and what it means for the future of local business. Host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with community leaders live at the State of the Chamber Power Lunch to break down the Chamber’s biggest wins of the year.

Special guests include:

Selicia Sanchez-Adame, 2024 Board Chair of the Round Rock Chamber

Jordan Robinson, President & CEO of the Round Rock Chamber

Deana Cavanaugh, MBA, Chair Elect and community advocate

Topics include:

• The role of Chamber Ambassadors in driving membership and engagement

• The new five-year economic development strategic plan

• Launch of entrepreneurial support programs like G-Beta and Jumpstart

• Advocacy efforts to protect local sales tax revenue

• Leadership development and Round Rock’s vision for the future

• Growth of the Chamber Foundation and its impact on local nonprofits

For more info about the Round Rock Chamber of Commerce, visit https://roundrockchamber.org

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Cam Houser, founder of ActionWorks and creator of the globally adopted 3-Day Startup program, joins Rock Solid to talk about what really drives entrepreneurial success — action. In this high-energy episode, Cam and Bryan Eisenberg dig into the new Jumpstart program launching in Round Rock, TX, designed to push aspiring founders from dreaming to doing.

Learn why Cam avoids typical networking, how rapid iteration beats perfection, and why video storytelling is a startup superpower in the age of AI.

Whether you're a solopreneur, a tech visionary, or just itching to get off the sidelines, this episode is for you. Cam shares why Round Rock's supportive, low-barrier ecosystem is ideal for startups — and how Jumpstart will help founders launch fast, learn faster, and build things that matter.

📍 Learn more or apply for the Jumpstart program at: actionworks.co/rr

🎯 Topics Covered:

• The power of taking action over endless planning

• The biggest fallacies in startup culture today

• Why AI makes speed and clarity essential for new businesses

• How to build trust and credibility as a founder (hint: it's video)

• Who the Jumpstart program is for — and how to get involved

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

From cheer coach and cosmetologist to corporate sales and finally a mindset coach, Jayme Shiarla's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this powerful episode of Rock Solid, Jayme opens up about her past trauma, her leap of faith into entrepreneurship, and the importance of challenging limiting beliefs.

She shares how her podcast Make Time for Your Mind with Coach Jayme empowers listeners to turn information into implementation and reveals how she helps high performers overcome burnout, emotional disconnection, and self-sabotage.

You'll hear Jayme’s take on morning routines, the power of quotes, sleep struggles in today’s hustle culture, and why so many successful people still feel empty inside. This is a must-watch episode for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or ready for a mindset shift.

🔗 Connect with Jayme at http://coachjayme.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What if a photo could change how you see yourself for the rest of your life?

In this powerful episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Felicia Reed, renowned photographer, mindset coach, and speaker, whose work goes far beyond the camera. Felicia doesn’t focus on lighting, lenses, or technical perfection — she focuses on connection, safety, and liberation.

Felicia shares how her luxury portrait experiences help women reconnect with their value, reclaim their confidence, and see themselves clearly — often for the first time in decades. From entrepreneurs tying their self-worth to business performance, to women healing from trauma, cancer, and abuse, this conversation explores what it really means to feel seen.

You’ll learn:

• Why most women struggle to see their true value

• How identity and mindset shape confidence more than appearance

• Why premium experiences are about transformation, not transactions

• The hidden power of slowing down and creating safe spaces

• How Felicia’s work blends photography, coaching, and healing

This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone who has ever struggled with self-worth.

🎧 Listen, reflect, and prepare to see yourself differently.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Small and medium-sized businesses are standing at the edge of a massive opportunity—and a massive risk.

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Logan Dunaway, an IT specialist focused on SMBs, to unpack what AI, cybersecurity, and digital transformation really mean for local businesses today.

They dive into:

• Why SMBs are more agile—and better positioned—than enterprises to adopt AI

• The dangers of removing the human element from customer experiences

• How AI agents can help you punch above your weight (and when they can hurt you)

• The real cybersecurity risks small businesses underestimate every day

• Why digital transformation is more than just “going paperless”

• How data, IoT, and smarter tech decisions are reshaping restaurants, healthcare, and offices

• Why right-sizing technology (yes, even printers) matters more than buying “the best”

This is a grounded, practical conversation for business owners who want to grow smarter—without turning their business into a “platypus” of bolted-on tech.

If you’re a founder, solopreneur, or SMB leader wondering how to adopt AI responsibly, protect your business, and still deliver human-centered experiences, this episode is for you.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with registered dietitian Maggie Stenson to bust nutrition myths and dive deep into what really matters when it comes to healthy eating. From the truth about breakfast and social media fads, to the difference between dietitians and influencers, Maggie shares a refreshingly personalized approach to nutrition.We discuss:• Why "breakfast is the most important meal" might be a myth• How to spot bad nutrition advice online• The emotional roots of our relationship with food• Parenting and how diet talk impacts kids• The rise of gut-health sodas like Olipop and Poppy• When (and why) individualized nutrition matters most📍 Learn how Maggie supports clients with eating disorders, intuitive eating, and meal support in the Round Rock area and beyond: https://www.atxnutritionalcounseling.com📧 Want to connect with Maggie? Find her online or schedule a session: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-stenson-mcn-rd-ld-ceds-c-a97a311b2/Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Joe Austin—former championship-winning college football coach turned business strategist. Known affectionately as "Coach Joe," he dives into the powerful parallels between leading a football team and running a successful business.

Joe shares insights on:

• Why systems and processes are the secret to winning—on the field and in the office

• The biggest mistakes business owners make (hint: it’s not your marketing!)

• What it means to be coachable—and why it matters in business

• The emotional moment that made him walk away from coaching

• How to be a better sports parent and support your child’s development

Joe’s journey from quarterback to head coach, and now to empowering business leaders through CJA Strategy, is packed with lessons in leadership, growth, and realignment of life priorities. Don’t miss his practical advice and heartfelt stories.

Learn more about Joe at https://CJAstrategy.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

What if failing 9 times was exactly what you needed to unlock your purpose?

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Wen Zhang, founder of If Not Now, Wen and a passionate advocate for authentic leadership and storytelling. Wen shares her incredible journey from a remote village in China—where speaking up as a girl was discouraged—to building a global community that empowers leaders to be seen, be heard, and celebrated.

They explore:

• The emotional journey of failing the TOEFL test 9 times and what resilience really looks like

• Wen’s transition from leading a 400-person team at Dell to coaching entrepreneurs full-time

• Why storytelling is more than pitching—it’s about human connection

• How joy, humor, and introspection can help us shed the layers covering our inner light

Wen also reveals what she'd put in a time capsule, how she defines the spirit of Round Rock, and how her immigrant journey shaped her mission to help others find clarity and purpose.
Website: https://www.ifnotnowwen.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wen-zhang-duke-mba

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of No Time for Social, a local Round Rock digital marketing agency.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state-of-the-art photo studio.

At just 14 years old, Arjun Sharda is already running a tech consulting business and the largest K-12 networking nonprofit in Texas. In this inspiring episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with this young innovator to talk about:

• How Arjun launched a website and hosting company with friends

• His nonprofit platform, TLEM, now connecting 4,000+ youth across 37 countries

• The challenges of youth networking and how he’s solving them

• His views on AI, ethics, and the future of tech

• The power of transparency, value-driven business, and youth empowerment

From fundraising and mentorship to creating a network for student-led change, Arjun’s story is one of purpose, persistence, and passion.

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this inspiring episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Suzette Reynoso-Bivens—former TV journalist, Round Rock Chamber ambassador, and founder of Tot Box Café. Suzette shares her powerful story of transformation after the sudden loss of her father, launching two local businesses, and building a supportive community for mothers and families.

From a career in film and news to entrepreneurship fueled by purpose, Suzette opens up about embracing vulnerability, overcoming fear, and the lessons she's learned from motherhood and her daughter's joy.

We dive deep into the inspiration behind Tot Box Café, her “unsexy but essential” second business in sanitation, and her powerful message to fellow entrepreneurs.

Don’t miss Suzette’s candid thoughts on storytelling, social media, and staying grounded through life’s curveballs.

Suzette Reynoso-Bivens on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzette-reynoso-bivens-327ba264

Tot Box Play Cafe: https://www.totboxplaycafe.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

From Dublin to Round Rock, Tracy Donegan shares her inspiring journey as a midwife, tech entrepreneur, and wellness advocate. In this episode of Rock Solid, Tracy discusses:

• Building apps like GentleBirth and Fertile Mind to support pregnancy and fertility

• The science behind red light therapy and its impact on pain management, fertility, and chronic conditions

• Why she transitioned from digital to brick-and-mortar with Salasta Health

• The importance of community and women’s health advocacy

• Debunking myths around alternative medicine and empowering resilience

Learn how Tracy is using evidence-based tools to revolutionize care for women and families—right here in Round Rock.

Tracy Donegan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracy-donegan

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

In this episode, Bryan Eisenberg is joined by a remarkable leader and multitasker: Joe Jeffers.
Joe is a reservist officer in the U.S. Army, a top national soccer referee (in the top 5% of officials in the country), and a financial planning professional in Round Rock.
In this episode we dive into:

• how Joe developed the emotional control and decision‑making that serve him on the field, in the military, and in finance

• the “servant mindset” instilled in him by his father’s automotive business and how it drives his professional philosophy

• how he juggles multiple high‑stakes roles — from military duty to youth sports refereeing to family life and business

• his process for helping clients with financial planning: getting real about goals, spending, and making a plan their plan

• what motivated his transition from active duty to civilian life and how a “free lunch” led to a career pivot into financial advising

• and practical take‑aways you can apply: getting clear on what you serve, balancing priorities, making lists, and staying focused under pressure

Tune in to hear Joe’s stories, insights, and real talk. If you’re striving to do more, serve more, or lead more — this one’s for you.

Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephjeffers85

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co‑owner of A Place At Home – North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.
Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.
Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state‑of‑the‑art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Zahir Walji — affectionately known as the "Wine Guru of Round Rock." From a career in real estate and finance to becoming Central Texas’ leading authority on Bordeaux wines, Zahir shares his journey of passion, persistence, and palate.

Learn how he built a thriving wine business in a city still finding its wine identity, why Bordeaux holds his heart, and how global wine trends are reshaping local tastes. Zahir also opens up about starting a wine club, navigating entrepreneurship in Round Rock, and the joys of raising a family in this vibrant community.

🍷 Why Bordeaux stands out among wines

🍷 How Round Rock is developing its wine culture

🍷 Tips for finding and enjoying quality wines

🍷 Advice for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Most people in Round Rock, Texas have never heard of Trade Management Solutions — but they’ve likely benefited from their work. In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Hector and Alex Quintanar of TMS, a 4PL logistics company quietly powering the supply chains of major brands like Dell. Discover how this local business built a global logistics network, navigates shifting tariffs, and helps small startups grow into international players.

We dive into:

• What 4PL logistics really means (and how it's different from 3PL)

• How Trade Management Solutions helps both Dell and small e-commerce startups

• The real impact of tariffs and international politics on your daily deliveries

• How AI is changing the warehouse (but not replacing humans)

• Why being fast can help small businesses beat giants like FedEx

• How this Round Rock-based business is leading nearshoring efforts in Mexico

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

On this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Batya Porter, a rising real estate force in Central Texas who’s rewriting the rules on what it means to truly represent a buyer or seller. Batya, known for her deep educational drive and tagline "Buy Better with Batya," shares eye-opening real estate horror stories, explains why nearly 90% of sellers have regrets, and uncovers the property tax traps that can cost Texans thousands.From commercial leases to homestead exemptions, Batya’s attention to detail has saved clients from financial disasters—and she explains exactly how. Whether you're a first-time buyer, military veteran, or investor, this episode gives you essential tips on navigating the Texas market.Plus, hear how a personal childhood tragedy sparked Batya’s mission to protect families from real estate pitfalls, and how she’s giving back to the Round Rock community through school snack programs and more.Batya Porter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/buywithbatyaRock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state-of-the-art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with John Garrett, the founder of Community Impact, a hyperlocal newspaper empire built from scratch right here in Williamson County, Texas.John shares his journey from working at the Houston Chronicle to launching a bold print publication in the age of digital news. Discover why "all news is local" still matters, how faith and community shaped his path, and the keys to building a business with heart and purpose.They dive into:• Why hyperlocal news is more relevant than ever• The grind of entrepreneurship and overcoming discouragement• The power of product and people in growing a company• Marketing tips for local businesses• The vital role of chambers and community involvement📍 Subscribe to Community Impact: https://communityimpact.comJohn Garrett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jpgarrettRock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer, and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock-based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of No Time for Social, a local Round Rock digital marketing agency.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses with professional podcast and photo studio services.

Joe Fischer, founder of Playmaker Recruiting and winner of the Round Rock Chamber’s Startup Day pitch competition, joins host Bryan Eisenberg on Rock Solid. In this episode, Joe shares his journey from being an overlooked high school athlete to creating a platform that helps student-athletes get discovered—without costing families a dime.

Discover:

• What it's like to pitch against top startups

• How Playmaker bridges the gap between athletes, coaches, and recruiters

• Why accessibility in college recruiting matters more than ever

• The impact of NIL, transfer portals, and over-commercialization in youth sports

👉 Learn more about Playmaker Recruiting: playmakerrecruiting.com

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

🤝 Bill Combes, owner of local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

🎙️ Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state-of-the-art photo studio.

In this special episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Charlie Culpepper—former mayor, councilman, and 40+ year Round Rock leader—for a deep dive into the origins and explosive growth of Round Rock, Texas.

Charlie shares firsthand stories about:

• How Dell almost went to Phoenix or Nashville

• The creative deal that brought the Round Rock Express to life

• Building a community with purpose, not politics

• Why his daughter, now Mayor Pro Tem, and his grandkids have all chosen to stay

• The secret to Round Rock’s tight-knit community spirit, even with 130K+ residents

Get ready to hear the real stories behind the decisions that shaped the Round Rock we know today—from a one-stoplight town to a nationally recognized success story.

📍 Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock-based home care agency.
🎯 Bill Combes, owner of No Time for Social, a local Round Rock digital marketing agency.
🎥 Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with two podcast sets and a state-of-the-art photo studio.

In this episode of Rock Solid, host Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Carolyn Lane, founder of Cosmic Egg Wellness in Round Rock, TX. From sound baths that stir deep emotional release, to postpartum doula work that supports new parents, Carolyn shares her unique journey blending yoga, frequency healing, and community care.Learn how Carolyn’s curiosity—and a bit of hippie flair—led her to create a sanctuary for women navigating different life phases. Hear about her struggles finding her people, building a business in Round Rock, and how she sees healing through sound and presence as the future of wellness.Whether you're into chakras, naps, or just looking to feel a little less alone, this episode is for you.🔗 Connect with Carolyn: https://www.cosmiceggwellness.comFollow on IG: @cosmiceggwellnessRock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

When Jessica Scanlon came up with the name Hot Dog Marketing, it was inspired by her dachshunds—little did she know it would grow into one of Central Texas’s most recognized marketing agencies. In this episode of Rock Solid, Jessica joins Bryan Eisenberg to share how she built her business from a freelance hustle in 2008 to a thriving agency helping professional services, government contractors, and public entities.

We dive into:

• The story behind the quirky agency name

• Building a woman-owned business in a male-dominated space

• The power of female collaboration in Round Rock

• Navigating the rapid rise of AI in marketing

• Why we’re in a “memory generation” era, not just lead generation

• Lessons from marketing “boring” industries—like ports!

• Her love for Round Rock, favorite hangouts, and shoutouts to local gems

Plus, find out why the City of Round Rock’s social media team is one of the best in the country and how Jessica’s team is using AI to redefine strategy and content creation.

📍 Learn more: https://hotdogmarketing.com

🔗 Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicascanlon

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.

Texas State University’s Round Rock campus is more than just a place for degrees — it’s helping fuel entrepreneurship, workforce readiness, and the growth of Central Texas.

In this episode of Rock Solid, Bryan Eisenberg sits down with Julie Lessiter, Vice President of Texas State University Round Rock Campus, to talk about:

• How the campus partnered with the Round Rock Chamber for Startup Day & Pitch Competition

• Plans for a new business incubator to support local startups

• Expanding degree programs, including 18 undergraduate and 11 graduate offerings

• The importance of workforce-driven education (not just academics for academics’ sake)

• How AI, critical thinking, and industry partnerships are reshaping higher education

• Affordable healthcare clinics offered through the campus

• Big plans for reaching 10,000 students — including an upcoming aviation program

Julie also shares her passion for first-generation college students, her favorite spots around Round Rock, and why Texas State Round Rock is quickly becoming a hub for the region.

_________

Rock Solid is brought to you by host Bryan Eisenberg, a New York Times bestselling author, digital pioneer and co-owner of A Place At Home - North Austin, a Round Rock based home care agency.

Bill Combes, owner of a local Round Rock digital marketing agency, No Time for Social.

Brent Pierce, owner of Round Rock Studio, empowering local businesses to share their stories with his two podcast sets and state of the art photo studio.